Whether you’re a player, parent or coach, it’s important to have an understanding of the role and needs for DBS Checks in sport.
We’ve put together a basic guide to highlight the key points and requirements that you should be aware of if you are involved in sport at any level.
What roles require DBS Checks in sport?
If you are in regulated, face-to-face contact with children under 18 years of age, or vulnerable adults, it is highly likely you need a DBS Check.
This means that everyone from the referee to the physio to the groundsman may require a certain level of Check – whether that be basic, enhanced or just a self-declaration form.
DBS Checks are only available to those over the age of 16.
What level of DBS Check will I require?
The level of Check that you need depends on the exact specification of your role.
An enhanced DBS Check would be required for those who are solely responsible for children or vulnerable adults as part of their everyday role, or with responsibility for children overnight (e.g. on a training camp).
Some sporting organisations may have particular guidelines related to your role.
If you are at all unsure, you should raise your query with the welfare team at your sports regional managing body.
For those under the age of 16, or those who are not responsible for sole supervision for under 18s (such as parental helpers or work-experience coaches) a self-declaration form may be all that is required to be involved in a sport.
Once again, this ought to be confirmed with the organisation in question.
What will a DBS Check involve?
The nature of the Check depends on the whether it is basic or enhanced.
A basic Disclosure is the lowest level of check available and contains details of any convictions considered unspent under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
A standard Disclosure cross-checks reprimands, cautions and convictions with the Police National Computer, while the extensive enhanced Check will refer to the Barred Lists.
How can I obtain a DBS Check?
Your employer should take responsibility for carrying out the necessary Checks if you are working in a regulated role.
Some organisations such as The Football Association may provide guidelines on applying for a Check.
If you are employing coaches, referees or anyone involved in under-18 sport then we can assist you with getting the correct level of Check for the role required and provide you with a rapid and accurate DBS Check.
uCheck also provide basic DBS Checks for individuals where required.
Do remember you cannot apply for an enhanced Check as an individual and your employer should not ask you to do so.
If you have any queries whatsoever about DBS Checks in sport, do not hesitate to get in touch. Our friendly team would be delighted to help.
